Essential Tools for Building an iOS App

Building an iOS app is much simpler than you think, if you are open to working with patience, determination and base technical knowledge. You could probably save lots of money if you could spare a bit of time to familiarise with the iOS app development field. It would be good to start slow, while getting into the groove and then proceed with the more interesting stuff.

iOS app development is now made easier with a number of tools now available at the app store. The testing can be done on the phone in addition to simulator, by registering as an official app developer, which requires a yearly fee payment. This registration will help with the publishing of the app in the App Store as well.

XCode

Building an iOS app primarily requires the download of XCode, which is the Integrated development environment (IDE) for iPhone app development. XCode is not only a code editor, it contains a host of performance tools. The debugging tools and static code analysis help in finding errors and bugs even before compiling the code.

Interface Builder

Another tool you need to familiarise with in order to aid building an iOS app includes Interface Builder, which helps in visual design of your app. the application consists of different objects tab bars, buttons, sliders and so on to create your app palette. It helps in the connection and manipulation of targets and actions.

Frameworks

Frameworks contribute to the ease of app development by providing a set of commands and tools to base your application upon. The frameworks available for building an iOS app assist in functions like developing networking code, encrypting information, displaying webpages, including multimedia elements in the application, saving passwords, data and so on. 

Programming languages

Objective C is the programming language which forms the basis of iOS app development. While building an iOS app you need to be familiar with the nuances of programming. If not, it is good to start with small concepts to get a grasp of the subject. 

The latest trends in iOS app development involves the use of other programming languages like C++, MonoTouch, PyObjC, MacRuby and so on. Websites that are made to resemble native apps are also developed now with the help of web technology frameworks like HTML, CSS, JavaScript and the sort.

For building a successful app, the basic framework needs to be strong and robust. An app needs to be well tested and bug free for its success. It should undergo a series of tests to be published through the app store.